Sweet gestures and gifts that are simple can be just as meaningful. When planning out this year’s teacher gifts, I ended up paring it down from my original thought and I think it’s cute and didn’t require much.
Straws and Pink filler – Dollar Store and Pop Shelf
I ordered the popcorn and Poppi soda’s online for a Target curbside pickup. Then I created the printable in Canva.
You can print it for FREE HERE. There are 6 tags per page.
Last year’s practical gift idea featured a handsoap from Trader Joe’s and a cute tag that was a play on the gift itself, “Hand’s Down, You’re The Best.”
From a cluttered corner to a cozy clean zone, our small laundry room glow-up is complete after I finished my first successful wallpapering project in our home.
Let’s talk about one of the most-used, least-loved spaces in our home: the laundry room. For a long time, ours was more of a “dumping ground” than functional zone—open shelves full of visible clutter, a constant eyesore for guests who entered through our garage door or used the nearby guest bathroom.
After living with a half-updated version of the room for over a year, I finally decided it was time to really finish it—and that meant trying something totally new: wallpaper.
Spoiler alert: it totally transformed the space. And yes, I smile every time I walk past it.
Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane and revisit how much we had done in this space prior to wallpaper.
Before: The Struggle Was Real
When we moved in, this small laundry room had basic open shelving, which seemed helpful at first—but quickly turned into a visual mess. Everything we needed was accessible, but also on full display. Not ideal, especially since this hallway sees so much guest traffic.
I knew the room had potential, but I needed a plan that was budget-friendly and achievable without a full remodel.
The Big Changes (One Step at a Time):
This wasn’t an overnight transformation—it came together piece by piece. If you want to read all about the steps listed below, I wrote about them in detail in this post.
• Ripped out the open shelving (good riddance!)
• Patched and prepped the walls where the new setup wouldn’t cover
• Installed stock cabinets from Lowe’s (I primed, painted, and we installed them ourselves—teamwork win!)
• Built custom cubbies above the cabinets to perfectly fit baskets we already had
• Added beadboard and trim to bring in some texture and charm
• Built custom shelves to go between cabinets (this was also a first). I accomplished making thick shelves by gluing together two pieces of wood then using edge banding to hide the seams. All was sanded and stained to match. They look like one thick shelf.
• Painted, caulked, filled nail holes—all the behind-the-scenes details that make the finish feel clean and professional
For about a year, we lived with those upgrades while I debated how to add that “something special.” I didn’t want it to just feel done—I wanted it to feel designed.
The Finishing Touch: My First Wallpapering Project
Enter: Bold Wallpaper
I’d never wallpapered anything before except for an attempt at a friends home in their powder bath. We were successful until we reached a corner and then we struggled. Enough time had passed after that attempt so I finally decided to go for it in our home—and I’m so glad I did. I chose a bold pattern that felt cheerful and cozy (and a little unexpected for a laundry space).
To make things easier, I used a spray adhesive in addition to the peel-and-stick wallpaper. I WISH we had known about this product when I tried helping my friend! Total game changer. It allowed the paper to stay more movable while applying, so I could reposition it without having to fully peel and restick it.
You’ll also need a wallpaper kit, likethis one I used.
Also recommended, a laser level. This helps to keep your design straight as you apply each piece.
The After: A Space That Makes Me Smile
Now, this little laundry room feels like it belongs in our home. It’s functional, organized, and—dare I say—pretty!
What used to be a space I tried to hide is now one I’m proud to show off. Proof that even the smallest, most utilitarian spaces deserve a little love (and sometimes, a bold wallpaper moment).
What I Learned (and Would Totally Do Again):
• Don’t underestimate what a few stock cabinets and some custom touches can do.
• If you’ve never wallpapered before, don’t be scared! Spray adhesive was key with peel and stick wallpaper.
• Letting a space evolve over time can help you land on the right final vision.
• Small spaces deserve design, too!
Before & After Photos
If you’re sitting on a half-finished space and waiting for the “right time” to complete it—consider this your sign. The little details (like wallpaper) might be just what it needs.
Have questions about how we did something? Drop them in the comments—I’m happy to share more!
These printables also work for the kids if you are to fill little treat bags with Halloween themed goodies.
You will find everything you need, including printables for the homeowner to tape on their door so others know they have already been booed.
Download from the above link for the best quality.
I hope these printables make it easy and fun to spread a little Halloween cheer in your own neighborhood! It’s such a simple way to bring smiles, make connections, and remind others that community can be full of surprises—in the best way.
With strawberry season in full swing, I wanted to put together a thoughtful, seasonal gift to say thank you to the incredible teachers who’ve poured into my kids all year long. There’s something extra special about a homemade gift, and I loved the idea of celebrating the sweetness of spring with a “berry sweet” theme!
This little bundle includes a few of my favorite things—simple, homemade touches and a few seasonal finds that pair beautifully together. Whether you’re making something similar for teachers, neighbors, or friends, this combo is sweet, personal, and easy to pull together!
What’s Inside:
Homemade Strawberry Jam – I’m sharing my go-to recipe below. It’s quick, delicious, and the perfect way to make the most of fresh strawberries.
Mini Sourdough Loaf – Made with love. There’s nothing better than fresh jam on warm bread, so I included a small loaf of my homemade sourdough. You can support a local bakery and buy scones or fresh baked bread.
Strawberry Soda – This adds a little fun and sparkle to the gift. I picked up mine from Target – Mini Olipop Cans
Mini Berry Colander – I tucked everything inside this adorable berry strainer that they can reuse all season long. It adds charm and makes the whole gift feel like a curated farmers market basket. I found these at TJ Maxx but have sourced similar options for you here.
The Presentation:
I used some pink kraft paper shreds in the bottom of the colander to nestle everything inside, then wrapped it up in a clear cellophane bag and tied it with pretty ribbon and a card. I’ve included a printable of the tags I designed which you can customize and add your name.
Print these on cardstock, punch a hole and tie the ribbon.
Homemade Strawberry Jam Recipe:
This is a small batch jam with no pectin—just a few ingredients and lots of flavor. Perfect for gifting!
You can double or triple the batch if you’re making these gifts for multiple teachers. I used 4 oz. jars, which are the perfect size for gifting.
For a smaller themed gift idea, you can pair a small jam jar with a mini Olipop Soda, tie it in a small clear bag and include a plant or giftcard.
Linked Favorites:
If you’d like to recreate this gift, I’ve rounded up a few similar or exact items for easy shopping:
Whether you’re wrapping up the school year or just want to share a little springtime joy, this is a sweet, simple way to show someone they’re appreciated and loved.
Have you ever made a seasonal-themed gift? I’d love to hear your ideas—and if you try this one, tag me so I can see your berry sweet creations!
Turning 40 felt like the perfect time for a reset—an opportunity to step away from the everyday hustle and gift myself a little space to reflect, move my body, and soak up nature’s beauty. When my husband needed to be in Arizona for work (and since I could fly for free thanks to his companion pass—woohoo!), I decided to take advantage of the opportunity and turn the trip into a personal wellness retreat.
For four days, I focused on slowing down, moving intentionally, and soaking up Arizona’s stunning landscapes. Here’s a recap of what made this solo trip such a refreshing escape.
Day 1: Hiking & Sunset Views at Piestewa Peak
Nothing sets the tone for a trip like a good hike after a long travel day, and Piestewa Peak did not disappoint. The climb was a challenge, but reaching the summit and taking in the panoramic views as the sun dipped below the mountains was absolutely worth it. There’s something about standing at the top, watching the sky transform, that makes you feel both small and limitless at the same time. It was the perfect way to kick off my time in Arizona—just me, (and several other hikers), the trail, and that golden-hour glow.
Day 2: Exploring the Neighborhood, Hot Yoga & A Private Oasis
I signed up for unlimited yoga at a nearby studio, which offered a variety of hot yoga classes. Before class each time I laced up my running shoes and went for a morning run, winding through beautiful neighborhoods with stunning mountain views. There’s something so peaceful about running in a new place, letting the scenery unfold, and viewing the achitecture and landscaping as you go.
Hot yoga was a regular practice of mine when we lived in Wilmington, NC and recently I reincorporated it back thanks to the amazing studio I found locally. Each session here in Arizona felt like a reset—sweating out tension, deep stretching, and grounding myself in the present. There was also something so freeing about not knowing a single sole in the studio for class.
Part II of Day 2: A Private Oasis & Total Relaxation
One of the highlights of this trip was my micro boutique hotel—a true oasis tucked away from the busyness of the city. With a pool, hot tub, fire pit, and even a cold plunge, it felt like a spa retreat all on its own. I spent time simply being—reading by the water, listening to music on the Bose speaker they provided, taking refreshing dips, and soaking up the Arizona sun. It was a reminder that rest is just as important as movement, and this space gave me the perfect environment to fully unwind.
After my time by the pool, I went to The Henry for dinner. Adam and I had eaten here a couple years prior when we visited a few national parks and Scottsdale, AZ. We loved the ambiance of the restaurant and were blown away by the food that is prepared in their craft kitchen. They have a great happy hour menu, robust menu offerings for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They truly are the neighborhood restaurant. Just look at their website and you’ll see why we talk about it to this day.
Day 3: A Day in Sedona – Hiking & Red Rock Magic
When Adam and I traveled out west in April of 2023 to visit Bryce, Zion National Parks and other bucket list stops, we passed through Sedona at the end of our trip but didn’t have time to explore. Knowing I’d only be 2 hours away on this trip, I made it a priority to incoportate it into my itinerary as an adventure day. I got coffee for the road at Black Riffle Coffee Co (which i was excited to know was walking distance from my rental) and made the drive to Sedona. I spent the day hiking three different trails, each one offering something special—red rock views, peaceful forested paths, and that unmistakable Sedona magic.
The landscape here is breathtaking, and I could feel the grounding, calming energy with every step. It was the perfect way to wrap up my wellness retreat, feeling strong, clear-headed, and deeply refreshed.
If you have one day to spend in Sedona, just know that it is an easy day trip from the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. I’m sharing a simple itinerary if you want to squeeze in hikes and see the area.
12 hours in Sedona:
Leave Phoenix by 6AM. If the timing is right, you can catch the sunrise as I did at Aqua Fria National Monument along the way. It was right off of an exit.
Arrive at Devil’s Bridge via Mescal Trailhead around 8AM and hike the beautiful trail. There is some rock scrambling as you get closer to the bridge but it wasn’t too difficult for a seasoned hiker. I would feel comfortable if our 3 sons were to hike it at ages 10, 8 and 4. Be sure you also check out the short trail that leads you to the underside of Devil’s Bridge. Allow 2 hours for this hike. During peak tourist season, you may need to allow more time if there is a long line to take picture on Devil’s Bridge.
*It’s not as narrow as it appears in pictures. It’s a wide area to walk across and again, I would be okay with our boys going on it but they would, of course, be holding our hands.
Drive to Fay Canyon Trail (10 Minutes) – This is a shorter hike. You can not miss the offshoot trail that leads to another arch. It is more scenic than the trail end of Fay Canyon. Allow 1.5 hours total for this hike.
Stop in town for a quick bite to eat or enjoy snacks you bring for the hikes as I did. I wanted to hustle to get in as much in as possible.
Drive to Cathedral Rock – 18 minutes from Fay Canyon. Pit stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross that’s along the drive.
Cathedral Rock is considered difficult on Alltrails and I would agree. There is a lot of rock scrambling to get to the top. I pushed through the uncomfortable and challenging path to get to the top and I’m glad I did. The views were worth it.
Drive back to Phoenix and enjoy the views along the way. If you’re lucky, you’ll see hot air balloons in the sky near Sedona.
Day 4: A Travel Day – But first, Get. Those. Steps. In.
Given the time I needed to be out of my rental, I had time to make a cup of coffee, relax in my private Oasis, then head out for another scenic run before I had to shower and prep for the airport.
It’s kind of wild that Adam and I traveled so far together and didn’t spend much time, just the two of us, in Arizona. I did get the best surprise on the last night when he wrapped up work early and was able to join me at my rental for the night.
Final Thoughts: Why This Trip Was Exactly What I Needed
Stepping away from my normal routine and gifting myself these four days was one of the best things I could have done. Movement, nature, quiet moments, and intentional rest—this trip reminded me how important it is to carve out time to reset. So, thank you to all my friends for encouraging me to go when I almost backed out.
Whether it’s a solo getaway or just taking small moments in everyday life, prioritizing your well-being is always worth it. This is something that I have learned to not feel guilt over the older I get. At the end of the day, I know carving out this time will, hopefully, allow me to be present and live a healthier life so I can be here for our family.
If you’ve ever thought about taking a solo trip, let this be your sign to go for it! Everything you you normally have to do will be waiting for you when you get back. So, go on that trip. Take the time. Miss your family. Let them miss you. Then go back with a refreshed mindset and core memories that you’ll hold with you forever. (Especially if you’re celebrating a milestone birthday like I was). 💛
Would you take a solo trip for a wellness reset? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
This super simple gift idea is bubbling with love. See what I did there? I created a free printable to make this gift idea quick and easy to assemble for teachers, friends, neighbors, or loved ones.
When I saw these seasonal soaps at Trader Joes a couple weeks ago, I knew immediately what I could do with them as a teacher gift for our son’s teachers. Not only is it practical, these soaps smell delightful.
I paired them with Belgian chocolates, also at Trader Joes, and filled these cellophane bags with shredded red filler and adorned each with pretty red felt ribbon.
You can see from the design and color way of the tag, you have the flexibility to use pink or red ribbon.
Wishing you a Valentine’s Day that’s hands-down the best! Whether you’re spreading kindness to teachers, friends, or family, a little love goes a long way—no ifs, ands, orhands about it!
We’re three weeks into January, and chances are, you’ve set a few personal or professional goals for yourself. I’ve noticed a lot of people diving into post-holiday organization, clearing out the clutter, and sharing their progress online. While I totally get the motivation, I also feel the overwhelming pressure to “do all the things.”
In full transparency, I’ve had to tune out the noise that constantly floods our social media feeds. Messages like: Do more. Buy this. Try that. Here’s the latest and greatest thing you absolutely need can quickly become too much.
It’s a lot.
Here’s where I’m at: I want practical solutions that work for our family. I approach organizing by first assessing what we already have at home. Then, I figure out how to make it work without overspending on trendy organizational products.
Two Pain Points in Our Home:
Too many water cups sitting out around the house.
Constantly digging through the pantry or fridge to find things—only to realize I have to move five items to get to the one I need.
If you’re tired of washing cups nonstop or filling the dishwasher’s top rack every day, let me introduce you to the simplest solution that’s been a game-changer in our home, magnetic cups! The best part? It’s affordable!
Want to know what happened when these small changes were made in our home? It gave our three boys responsibility they could control with their water cups. There was no longer a question about, “who’s cup is this?” Our 4-year-old listened to directions about how to use the cup one time and took ownership in getting his own water, dumping out what he didn’t drink, and putting the cup back on the fridge where he can reach it.
Kids want responsibility.
Now, let’s talk about the fridge and pantry. Do you have family members who open the fridge, take one look, and immediately ask you where something is? Let’s be honest—most of the time, they haven’t even tried to find it.
I came across these acrylic lazy Susans at our local TJ Maxx, and I instantly knew they could help. They’re perfect for organizing condiments, cooking essentials, and all those pantry staples we reach for regularly.
These two small, affordable purchases have made a huge difference. The counters are clearer, and it’s so much easier to find what we need in both the fridge and pantry. This two pack would be perfect, Lazy Susans
Cheap. Practical. Problem solved.
I’m reminded of a verse from Ecclesiastes 4:6: “Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.” It’s such a grounding reminder that more isn’t always better. Sometimes, less is exactly what we need—less stuff, less striving, and less pressure to keep up.
Let’s lean into finding solutions that work for your family—starting with what you already have at home. You might be surprised by how simple changes can make a big impact.
There is something nostalgic about creating a cozy haven during the holiday season. From the moment I pull out the storage boxes brimming with decorations, the magic begins. It starts with putting my favorite childhood Christmas vinyl, Once Upon a Christmas by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers, on our son’s record player—a tradition carried over from my parents, who always played it as we decorated our childhood home together. That familiar music instantly transports me back to those warm, joy-filled moments of stringing lights, hanging ornaments, and marveling at the twinkling glow of the tree.
Now, as a mom myself, I feel the same excitement when transforming our home for the holidays. Each piece of decor tells a story, and each tradition we honor—or create anew—brings its own special kind of joy. This year, I’m reflecting on the little moments that make Christmas magical for our family: the sweet smells of baking with my mom, the laughter of my boys as they exchange gifts, and the quiet evenings Adam and I share once the house falls silent.
These are the traditions that make our home feel like a haven during the most wonderful time of the year.
Our Family Christmas Traditions
Hungarian Pastry-Making with Mom One of my most cherished traditions is baking Hungarian pastries with my mom, using a recipe passed down from my grandmother. This heirloom recipe is a delightful treat filled with a pecan center, surrounded by a dough that is made a day in advance. The following day, we hand-roll the dough, cut each individual pastry, stuff them with the pecan filling, roll them up, bake them, and finally sprinkle them with powdered sugar when they are fresh out of the oven. It’s a process that requires time and care, but it’s one that I always look forward to. Perfecting this recipe has been important to me, but more than anything, I have treasured the time spent with my mom.
Thanks to today’s technology, we can even ask Alexa to play the same Christmas record while we bake, no matter where we are. Over the years, this tradition has evolved; some years have included babies in tow and adjustments to our usual routine. Yet one thing has remained constant: the joy of spending time together while creating a family favorite.
Driving to see Christmas Lights
Another family tradition is driving through neighborhoods to see Christmas lights while listening to Christmas music. The awe and excitement that our kids exude when they see the bright lights is so much fun to witness. Our youngest, in particular, is a BIG-TIME Grinch fan. This year, we’ve made a special point to take him to see as many Grinch decorations as possible because his over-the-top excitement every time he spots one is absolutely contagious. These outings have become a highlight of our holiday season and a tradition we look forward to year after year. We’ve also added in ice skating at Fenton in Cary and seeing the lights at the downtown Cary Park as a newer tradition if our schedule allows each year.
Christmas Eve Church Service This tradition brings a sense of peace and spiritual focus to the holiday season. The service culminates in a breathtaking moment: with the lights dimmed, the congregation lights candles and sings “Silent Night” together. The glow of the candles and the harmony of voices create an overwhelming sense of serenity and connection, reminding us of the deeper meaning of Christmas.
The Boys’ Gift Exchange (New Tradition!) This was the first year I had the boys select a Christmas gift for each other. Bonus, they didn’t have to spend their own money but I did have them wrap the gifts. After returning from Christmas Eve service, they ran to the tree begging to open 1 present. I knew that was the perfect time for them to open their gifts to each other. It was such a sweet moment watching them connect after opening the gifts and one new tradition that we will keep going for years to come.
Reading Favorite Christmas Books The excitement of Christmas morning is always at an all time high but the kids have never been more motivated to go to sleep. We settle down by reading a couple of their favorite Christmas books before lights out.
Couple Gift Exchange: Our Christmas Eve Nighttime Tradition: This tradition began long before we had kids. We used to live two hours away from family and would travel to spend Christmas with everyone. But that left us wondering—when would we exchange gifts with each other? It felt impractical to pack up gifts for one another, only to bring them back home unopened. And so, a new tradition was born.
Now, even with children, this has become a cherished part of our Christmas Eve. Some years we don’t exchange gifts at all, but instead, we simply enjoy the quiet time together. Often, we’ll make a festive holiday cocktail, sit in the glow of the Christmas tree, and just talk. This uninterrupted time allows us to savor the moment and open gifts slowly, without the usual chaos of the next morning. With three boys, Christmas morning is nothing short of lively, so having this peaceful tradition ensures that our focus is entirely on them when the big day arrives. It’s a sweet, meaningful way for us to reconnect and celebrate the season as a couple.
I hope you will consider starting this tradition with your significant other.
Gingerbread White Russian was something new we tried this year.
1:1:1 Ratio of Vodka, Vanilla Kahlua and Trader Joe’s Gingerbread oat milk creamer. We actually measured out 1.5 of each, less of the Kahlua for less sweetness. Having the TJ’s seasonal oat milk creamer on hand proved to be a delightful twist and made it a seasonally crafted cocktail that had just the right amount of spice.
Crafting a Christmas Card Flipbook Don’t throw out the Christmas cards you receive just yet. Several years ago, I found it difficult to let go of the beautiful cards we had received and brainstormed ways to hold onto them a little longer. I dug through my craft kit, found a box of binder ring closures, and got out a hole punch. Now, I have a few years’ worth of cards packed away with our Christmas decor that I set out each year in a decorative bowl.
If keeping every card isn’t your thing, I encourage you to at least save one of your own cards each year to create a flipbook. Your kids will love flipping through them and seeing how they’ve changed over the years.
Order your supplies today! I’ve linked everything you need to create your own Christmas card keepsake here. (Link supplies), here.
Annual Cookie Bake with Kids
A few years ago, my childhood friends and all of our children began one of my favorite traditions we share. We all gather and make a variety of cookies. It’s such a sweet morning together.
2024 Decor showcase
The Mantel Moment
This year’s mantel is, without a doubt, my favorite. It came together during a craft day with a friend when I made a dried orange garland. Paired with delicate gold leaves tucked into the garland, twinkling fairy lights, oversized bells, a Peace garland (a clearance find from last year), and layered ribbon in my go-to color scheme, it feels absolutely perfect to me. The combination of textures, lights, and personal touches creates a centerpiece for our holiday decor that I’ll definitely recreate next year.
If you want to incorporate dried oranges in your decor next year, I’ve shared the how-to here.
Foraged greenery for porch pots, vases and table decor.
Encouragement & Reflection
As I look back on our holidays, I’m reminded that the true beauty of the season is found in the simplest moments. The true magic lies in the connections we build, the memories we make, and the love we share.
Creating a cozy haven for the holidays is more than just decorating—it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and joy for everyone who enters our home. Each garland hung, each card kept, and each ritual observed weaves together a story of love, gratitude, and togetherness.
My hope is that this post inspires you to embrace the traditions that bring you joy and to find new ways to make this season special for your own family. From my family to yours, may your holiday season be filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories.
I’m embracing the sweetness of the season, where nature’s simple beauty meets festive cheer. This year’s Christmas decor was all about organic elegance—dried oranges turned into garlands, ornaments, and little gifts for teachers.
On this Solstice day, December 21st, as we welcome the return of light, let’s celebrate the warmth, love, and hope this season brings. Wishing you all a season filled with light, joy, and moments of stillness.
If you’d like to fill your home with scents of the holidays, give a holiday party host a small gift, or freshen your home after the holiday cleanup, here are the steps to dry out oranges and apple slices:
Preheat oven to 200°.
Slice oranges 1/4 of an inch thick
Lay on paper towels and blot excess citrus juice
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange citrus and apple slices (not overlapping)
Bake to dehydrate for 2-3 hours flipping fruit every 45 minutes.
Citrus is done when the center is no longer sticky to the touch.
These dried citruses will keep for months if stored properly. They would also make for a great garnish on cocktails/mocktails.
For the simmer pot:
Include 3 orange slices, 2-3 dried apple slices, 1 tbsp of cloves, 3 cinnamon sticks, and 1/2 cup of cranberries. Rosemary or sage is optional.
Add to a pot with 2 cups of water and simmer on low adding water as needed.
If you’re gifting this simmer pot, add ingredients to a cute jar and attach the tag with instructions.
For a downloadable printable of the tags I made, click here.
If you’re looking for a little getaway right in the heart of Raleigh, the Heights House offers a charming and cozy retreat with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a local seeking a short break or a visitor wanting to explore the city’s vibrant culture, this staycation plan offers the perfect balance of relaxation, good food, and local adventure.
We recently planned our Raleigh staycation to celebrate our 14th anniversary that focused on exploring more of our area. We made reservations at the stunning Heights House, a place that has been on my bucket list forever and dinner reservations at one of our favorite local restaurants—one we don’t visit often enough due to its distance from home. The combination of a dreamy stay and an indulgent meal made for a perfect way to mark this special milestone and one that I hope you will consider planning if you are local or visiting the area. (Or perhaps you need a gift idea for that someone that is hard to buy for but loves experiences over things. This is it!)
Raleigh Staycation @ Heights House
Our check-in lead to a tour of the beautiful home, a brief history lesson and fun facts shared about the curated collection of furnishings within Heights House and how it came to be what it is today. Be sure to get a tour and history of the property when you check in.
Here is a suggested itinerary that is loosely based off of our experience.
Evening Kick-off: Cocktail Hour at Heights House
Start your evening with a drink in the beautifully restored parlor of Heights House. The intimate setting, paired with expertly crafted cocktails, sets the perfect tone for a relaxing night out. The mixologists here know their craft, and whether you’re in the mood for a classic or something a little more daring, you’ll be well taken care of.
The drink menu is set within vintage books. The attention to detail throughout the property was curated by the owners. Be sure to get a tour and history of the property when you check in.
After your cocktail, it’s time to head over to Brewery Bhavana. This award-winning restaurant combines craft beer, dim sum, and an elegant atmosphere to create a dining experience that’s both unique and satisfying. The food is creative and full of flavor, with dim sum options that are perfect for sharing.
For those who are gluten sensitive, there are numerous items that are gluten free. Make sure to try their bao buns and dumplings paired with a cold beer from their in-house brewery, my husbands go-to. I tend to stick to the wine. It’s a standout dining option for any Raleigh staycation.
Morning After: Breakfast and Coffee at Heights House
Start your next day with a delicious breakfast at Heights House. The inn offers a range of breakfast options, from fresh pastries to hearty favorites, all thoughtfully prepared to kickstart your day, all included in your stay. Enjoy it while relaxing in the peaceful surroundings of this beautifully restored home.
A Morning Stroll into Downtown Raleigh
After breakfast, head out for a leisure walk into downtown Raleigh. It’s a beautiful way to see the city and enjoy the fresh air before diving into the local scene.
Coffee at A Place at the Table
Your first stop? A Place at the Table, a nonprofit coffee shop that does more than just serve excellent coffee. This café’s mission is to provide a “pay what you can” model for its meals and drinks, meaning you can grab a coffee to go, and even purchase a meal for someone else. It’s a feel-good stop that supports the local community while also giving you that caffeine boost.
Explore Downtown Raleigh
From there, take a casual stroll along Fayetteville Street, stopping in local shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Raleigh is known for its mix of modern flair and historical charm, and this walk offers the perfect opportunity to explore.
One of my favorite finds on our recent staycation was Copperline Plant Co.. I’m growing my plant collection at home so it was nice to explore different varieties and chat with the shop owner to learn more.
Dinner Options for a Raleigh Date Night
If you’re looking for more date night ideas beyond a stay at Heights House, here are a few options that offer delicious food and drinks in different parts of the city:
Option 1: Drinks at Jolie, Dinner at Crawford and Sons
Start your evening with a drink at Jolie, a stylish spot offering craft cocktails in a chic atmosphere. Their rooftop is the perfect setting to catch a sunset. Be sure to make reservations. Once you’ve sipped your way through their menu, head to Crawford and Sons for dinner. Again, make reservations ahead of time. This upscale restaurant features modern American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect dishes that are both inventive and beautifully plated but most of all, delicious. I promise, you’ll talk about your meal for weeks to come.
Option 2: Whiskey Kitchen, City Market Sushi & Dessert at Bitter Sweet
For a more casual yet equally delightful evening, begin with drinks and apps at Whiskey Kitchen. This lively bar offers a fantastic selection of whiskey and craft cocktails, perfect for sipping before dinner. They also offer a creative menu that combines Southern-inspired dishes if you want to linger longer before dinner.
Then, make your way to City Market Sushi in Moore Square for fresh sushi and tasty rolls. To cap off your evening, walk over to Bitter Sweet for dessert. This local favorite serves decadent treats, from cakes to ice cream, all with a creative twist.
Whether you’re planning a full staycation or just looking for a fun date night, Raleigh offers a wealth of experiences that combine good food, great drinks, and plenty of local flavor. A night at Heights House or any of these recommended date-night spots will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to explore even more of what this vibrant city has to offer.
I hope you will feel inspired to plan a local staycation for your next special occasion. Too often we can feel pressured to travel far to have a magical experience but sometimes we just need to stay close to home and explore the wonderful options that are just outside our doorstep, or a short drive away.
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